Job description
Skincare specialists cleanse, treat, soothe and beautify the faces and bodies of their customers. By evaluating a customer’s skin condition, they apply the appropriate treatment, whether it be a facial, full-body scrub, peel, mask or massage.
Skincare specialists also remove unwanted hair, apply makeup and sell skincare products that will improve a customer’s condition or appearance.
Duties
- Evaluate customer’s skin condition and appearance
- Cleanse, treat, soothe and beautify face and body of client
- Perform facials and full-body scrubs
- Apply face peels or masks
- Perform face, neck and body massages
- Remove unwanted hair using wax or laser machines
- Apply makeup on customers
- Sell and recommend skincare products
- Recommend skincare routines
- Refer customers to other specialists, such as dermatologists
- Clean and disinfect equipment and materials
Skills and qualities
Job outlook
Projected growth
11%
New jobs
7.8k
Automation risk
29%
Career progression
Skincare specialists who work in beauty salons or health spas often progress to opening their own establishments, after years of applied skills and experience. Others choose to become dermatologists or massage therapists, after gaining the appropriate education and experience.
Working conditions
Average hours
40h/ week
Typical schedule
Full Time
Some nights and weekends
Skincare specialists mainly work indoors, in beauty salons, health spas or medical offices. Their job requires a lot of standing and communication with various types of customers. These professionals work in surroundings that are clean and well-lit so that they’re able to clearly evaluate their clients’ skin.
Skincare specialists are often exposed to fumes from the chemicals and lotions they use. They, therefore, often wear protective gear like gloves and masks, and require a room to have good ventilation.
Salary
Bottom 10%
$19k
Median
$31k
Top 10%
$60k
Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.
Qualifications and training
Education level
Vocational
State-approved cosmetology or aesthetician course
Study time
1–2 years
Skincare specialists are required to complete a state-approved cosmetology or aesthetician programme before being considered for employment. Once completed, you must obtain a state licence, which includes taking a written and practical exam. Licensing requirements vary by state.
You can also boost your employment prospects by continuing their education through additional seminars and programmes, or by completing post-licensing training from certain manufacturers, organisations or trade shows.
Last Updated: Wednesday, November 2, 2022
